Eric Bieniemy was introduced Thursday as the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders.
During an introductory press conference, the veteran NFL assistant coach revealed that he was not looking to use the opportunity in Washington as a springboard to a head coaching job.
«Head coaching right now is not in my thought process,» Bieniemy said. «What I’m focused on is being the best coach today; everything else will take care of itself. I live in the moment. Right now, my feet are planted here.»
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Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy of the Kansas City Chiefs during the Broncos game at Empower Field at Mile High on January 8, 2022 in Denver. (Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Bieniemy joins the Commanders after a 10-year stint with the Chiefs. In his five seasons as Kansas City’s offensive coordinator, the team won two Super Bowls.
Success in Kansas City led to several interviews for head coaching positions over the years, but Bieniemy never received an offer.
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«It hasn’t happened. It’s nothing that’s going to impact me in the future,» Bieniemy said. «That whole thing about being the head coach, we can talk about that next year at some point. I’m focused on the job at hand.»
At Kansas City, he focused primarily on game planning and design while head coach Andy Reid called the plays during games.
In Washington, Bieniemy would probably have full autonomy when it comes to offensive philosophy and call the plays.
Bieniemy replaces Scott Turner, who was fired in January after three seasons in charge. Washington’s offense during that span was mostly disappointing and never finished a season ranked higher than 20th in yards. Last season, the Commanders finished the year ranked No. 26 in points.
Ron Rivera begins his fourth season as Washington’s head coach. He has lived up to a 22-27-1 record thus far, but he led the Commanders to an NFC East title in 2020.
Eric Bieniemy speaks with Chiefs head coach Andy Reid before the AFC divisional playoff game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Arrowhead Stadium on January 21, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri. (David Eulitt/Getty Images)
Rivera and the Commanders are likely to be under pressure to have a winning season, especially with the franchise still in a shaky state and the owner in conflict. Dan Snyder explores a possible sale.
«Why not Washington?» Bieniemy responded when asked why he chose Washington.
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He added that the amount of talent on the roster played a role in his decision.
«Look at all the talent,» Bieniemy said. «I am excited about this opportunity. I have no doubts about what they are building here. I have never backed down from a challenge.»
Bieniemy has a relationship with Rivera dating back to the late ’90s when he played for the Eagles. Rivera worked as the team’s assistant coach in 1999.
Rivera empathized with Bieniemy’s search for a head coach.
«I can empathize because I went through the same thing,» Rivera said. «I interviewed eight, nine times before I got my chance. I know it’s the same for him. He’ll get that chance eventually.» Rivera also liked Bieniemy’s energy and how he plans to use Washington’s playmakers, particularly receivers Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson and Curtis Samuel.
«That’s the biggest thing we want in this offense: to be explosive, aggressive and complementary, but also to have an identity,» McLaurin said. «He brings the competitiveness. He brings the championship caliber.»
Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs speaks with offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy during Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium on February 12, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Super Bowl and league MVP Patrick Mahomes posted a tweet in support of his former coach.
«There should be no question about what a great man/coach Coach Bienemy is. His leadership has a direct impact on the player/person I am today! Over 10 years learning with one of the best coaches in all of times… and I can’t wait for you to continue to prove the doubters wrong!»
Bieniemy noted that it wasn’t easy for him to part ways with the Chiefs, but he knew it was time to go.
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«We’ve been very successful. I’ve been blessed and lucky to have that opportunity and share that space with some amazing people.
«But one thing in this profession is that you learn that comfort is the enemy of progress. So when all is said and done, I don’t like being comfortable. I’m willing to take challenges and move on. This presents a challenge to me. «